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Jill Wiley
Jill Wiley
Brockton, MA
Reverend Mary Jill Wiley passed away on December 13, 2025, in Brockton, Massachusetts, after a brief battle with cancer. She was born on August 23, 1947, and raised in Cedar Rapids.
Rev. Wiley graduated from Prairie High School and then the University of Iowa. She later received her divinity degree from Southern Methodist University. Her early professional life was rooted in politics, where she worked for Senator John Culver, Senator Dick Clark, Representative Neil Smith, and the Iowa Democratic Party. She culminated her political career as communications director for the 1984 Democratic National Convention. Additionally, she was on the original staff of the Des Moines Civic Center.
Following her call to ministry, Rev. Wiley served congregations in England, New Mexico, Texas, and Massachusetts. Her dedication to both faith and civic responsibility was evident throughout her life. In 2011, she was honored as one of Brockton’s “Women of the Year” for her leadership and advocacy. Among her achievements was leading a successful campaign to prevent casino gaming from being introduced in the city.
Rev. Wiley is survived by her husband of 37 years, Philip Jones; sister Linda May; brother Curt Wiley; and niece and nephew, Amanda Wiley and Max Wiley. She was predeceased by her parents, Samuel and Evelyn Wiley.
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